NEWS RELEASE
SENEY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
***********************
SENEY, MI – The Seney National Wildlife Refuge needs to extend the temporary closure of the Marshland Wildlife Drive and Fishing Loop until Friday evening due to ongoing road construction. We acknowledge that this extended closure will disappoint many of our valued visitors, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience.
We ask everyone to respect the closed signs, as the roads are currently impassable. The work involves removing the existing asphalt, adding fresh gravel, and regrading the road base in preparation for the laying of new asphalt, in early October. There are large pieces of asphalt and sandy patches where vehicles ignoring the “road closed” sign may get stuck. Each time a vehicle enters the worksite, construction must pause to address the situation, which ultimately slows down the progress of the project. Your cooperation is crucial in helping us complete this necessary work efficiently and safely.
Future Closures
Next week there will be single lane closures on the Refuge Entrance Road while additional cleanup work continues, but the wildlife drives are expected to be open.
This roadwork is in preparation of new asphalt being laid in early October. Updates on the paving schedule and further announcements will be communicated in late September as we gain more clarity on project timelines.
We understand the impact of these closures on your travel plans, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience.
What You Can Do While the Drives are Closed
While the drives are closed, we invite visitors to explore other opportunities within the refuge. Several hiking and biking trails remain accessible, offering a chance to experience the local flora and fauna up close. Hiking Trails are accessible from the Show Pool Shelter Access Area and the Visitor Center. Hiking and biking trails are accessible from the Northern Hardwoods Access Area and the Driggs River Road Access. Access to paddling the Manistique River is available at the state roadside park or through local outfitters.
Our staff is ready to provide information about the refuge, answer questions, and recommend trails and other activities to enrich your visit. our Visitor Center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For the latest information, please visit our website at www.fws.gov/refuge/seney or contact us directly at 906-586-9856.
